Arkansas bill targets gender-nonconforming haircuts for kids
Republican politicians in the state of Arkansas are proposing a ban on haircuts deemed "gender nonconforming" for children. This initiative is part of the so-called Vulnerable Youth Protection Act. If enacted, hairdressers could face criminal charges for styling a minor's hair in a way that does not align with traditional gender norms.
Newsweek reports that these Republican politicians are looking to introduce legislation called the Vulnerable Youth Protection Act. Under this proposed law, individuals involved in the "social transitioning of a minor" could face criminal penalties.
According to the contentious bill, "transition" refers to actions that "adopt a gender identity different from their biological sex, including changes in clothing, pronouns, hairstyle and name." This includes clothing and hairstyles that do not conform to traditional gender stereotypes.
Journalists highlight that the bill would prohibit barbers from giving girls haircuts often referred to as tomboy styles. Furthermore, a store owner who sells a bra to a teenager could potentially face criminal charges.
While Republicans hold 80% of the seats in the Arkansas House of Representatives, it is uncertain whether this bill will pass due to the controversy it has stirred, even in a state often seen as politically conservative.
The bill provokes strong emotions and legal concerns
The bill was submitted to the state parliament by Mary Bentley, an anti-abortion activist and entrepreneur. She argues that the bill is "about protecting children from being pushed into gender ideology. We need to ensure that kids are not being coerced into decisions they do not understand."
During the first reading, the bill faced criticism from Evelyn Rios Stafford, the only transgender person in a prominent position within Arkansas. She believes the bill is "absurd" and suggests that even compliments on hairstyles could be penalized under its provisions.
Lawyers have raised concerns that the bill might infringe on the constitutional right to freedom of speech. In response to the backlash, Mary Bentley has temporarily withdrawn the proposal to make amendments.
